Looking to make extra cash and grow your wedding photography business? Look no further than indoor headshots! Let’s be real, who doesn’t want to freshen up their LinkedIn profile picture or get their latest business headshot? By offering indoor headshots to solopreneurs and small businesses, you can tap into a whole new market while still flexing your photography skills. Lucky for you, you’re already an expert in the photography game! So, why not add corporate headshots as well to your repertoire? With a few quick, professional headshots tips, you can promote your new service and potentially increase your income. So, time to grab your camera and help your clients show off their best side!
Professional Headshot Photography
As a wedding photographer, capturing the moments of the big day is obviously your top priority. But have you considered adding professional headshots to your list of photography services? Professional headshots capture the essence of a person and can be used for work, social media, and personal brand marketing. Also, it’s a great way to add value and differentiate yourself from other wedding photographers. So, we’ve listed 5 ways to help you utilize this opportunity and offer something truly special to your clients.
1. Know What You Want To Offer
As you plan to add professional business headshots as part of your add-on services, don’t worry about finding luxurious locations or grandiose spaces! All you need is a small indoor location that can fit the bill (or even better, a free location!). You can even turn a small space in your home into a headshot haven. The possibilities are endless! If you’re feeling more daring, switch it up by changing the backdrop colors or explore outside for a more urban feel. With a bit of space and a lot of planning, lucrative headshot sessions can complement any wedding photography business.
To skyrocket your business success with the professional photos add-on service, you need to create a marketing game plan. Ensure that your clients get a high-quality headshot using natural light. Additionally, consider creating a creative marketing campaign. Many people today are looking to spruce up their portraits for LinkedIn or business websites with a professional headshot. Don’t just rely on word of mouth but take action!
Visit local businesses with your card or flier, or even better, a QR code with a link to your website. Another great way to boost your wedding photography business is to partner with other professionals in your industry, such as a business coach, a local SEO or social media company, or even a graphic designer. This collaboration can benefit both parties as you can promote each other’s services to your clients. Additionally, you can use social media to spread the buzz and attract more clientele.
3. Help Prepare Your Clients
You’ve booked the headshot session, and now it’s time to prepare your clients for their own professional headshot. Preparation is key, and that’s why creating a quick ‘how to prepare’ email can be a game-changer! From hair and makeup tips to clothing suggestions, your clients will be grateful for your guidance. But why stop there? Consider having a quick consultation call with the client to discuss any questions or concerns they may have about preparing for their photo shoot. Let them know that photos smiling and projecting confidence are essential elements of a professional photo. Plus, setting clear expectations not only smooths the road ahead but also gives you a chance to connect and build trust with your clients. With your expertise behind the lens and your helpful advice, your clients will feel confident and camera-ready.
You’ve decided to add professional headshots as an add-on service. The next step is figuring out how to price your own headshot services without scaring away potential future clients. After all, you want them to return for future sessions! Keep in mind that you’ll need to charge more than a DIY professional headshot while also remaining competitive within the market. Moreover, create personalized packages to meet the unique needs of each client; this can help in increasing the value of the service provided. When determining the price, try to find a balance between attracting clients and fairly valuing your work. Don’t offer too much of a discount initially, and keep prices competitive. A strategic approach to pricing will keep clients returning for more!
5. Add A Professional Headshot Photography Package
Consider adding a professional headshot package as an add-on service! A quick headshot session is perfect for those looking for a new LinkedIn profile picture or business card upgrade. But why stop there? You can offer seasonal branding sessions where your clients can come back for a full experience. Think of it as a way to capture their personal and professional brand in action. Another option to consider is to offer credits for the cost of the headshots towards a future branding session with the client. By doing this, you not only provide added value to the client but also encourage them to come back for more business. This can potentially lead to more bookings in the future.
As a wedding photographer, you understand how crucial it is to stay relevant in the constantly evolving business marketing landscape. Likewise, small business owners are continuously striving to enhance their brands and stand out as professional entities. A brand refresh can help with that! And what better way to do that than by offering indoor headshots? It’s a fun and creative way to expand your portfolio and make some extra cash. You can experiment with lighting or different angles to create high-quality professional quality headshots using natural and off-camera light. Plus, offering headshots as a service could have long-term benefits for your business, as clients may come back to you for future wedding photography needs. So why not add the service and a little pizzazz to your photography business and start promoting your indoor headshots today?
ShootDotEdit is committed to assisting you in expanding your wedding photography business. Our professional editing services are one way we accomplish this goal. To learn more about our offerings, explore our pricing plans.
Do you want to add a dash of magic to your wedding photography portfolio? Long exposure portraits are the perfect way to show off your skills and capture memorable wedding day moments in an ethereal, dreamlike style. Mastering the technique will take plenty of practice, but with the right tips, tricks, and know-how, anyone can learn to use this style to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind images. From setting your aperture to finding the perfect location, in this blog post, we offer you some essential tips that could help you level up your long exposure photography game. So, let’s dive right in!
5 Tips & Techniques To Master Long Exposure Photography
Creating portraits with long exposure techniques is an art that requires you to capture the essence of the moment. Following are the right tools that can help you create unique long exposure portraits:
Sturdy tripods or other stable platforms ensure image stabilization by eliminating camera shake, a necessity for long exposure portrait photography.
Timer remote is a great toolkit addition that allows you to take the shot without touching your camera and potentially causing motion blur.
Reflectors can help add depth and interest to your exposure shots, while proper lighting creates a flattering and realistic image.
Neutral Density filters (ND) help reduce the amount of light entering your lens, allowing you to use different shutter speeds, even in daylight, for creative long exposure images.
2. Find The Right Composition
The long exposure effect tends to blur the background, so it is necessary to balance the foreground and background elements. Look for interesting, eye-catching locations to pose your clients, such as beautiful landscapes, striking architectural elements, or a simple street scene.
Finding the right composition for long exposure photos can elevate your portraits to a whole new level. To achieve those jaw-dropping shots, it’s essential to find the right wedding photography composition that balances creativity and exposure techniques. Identify the perfect angle and composition, and pay attention to the horizon alignment that will make your shots stand out. Play around with different compositions; experiment with leading lines, symmetry, and negative space to create a balanced and harmonious image.
3. Work With Your Lights
Achieving striking long exposure portraits requires a little know-how when it comes to working with light. From using flashlights to carefully placed lamps and even playing with natural light sources, the possibilities are endless when it comes to capturing the beauty and romance of a wedding day through long exposure photography.
You can use lighting tools like a flashlight, sparkler, or even lanterns to create a magical effect. You can enhance the aesthetic of your photos and create different effects with lighting tools. Lamps can offer a warm and intimate feel to the portraits, while strobes can add movement and drama to your composition. Using flashes, softboxes, or reflectors will help highlight key areas of the long exposure shot.
The right camera settings enable longer exposure time for trailing lights and a still subject. You will find the ideal camera settings for long exposure photos below:
Shutter speed is key to capturing movement, and a slow shutter speed will create that dazzling motion blur. The exact shutter speed you need to use for your shot depends on the amount of motion you’d like to capture. The more prolonged the shutter speed, the more the exposure will capture light and motion blur. It’s recommended that you start around 1–2 seconds for sharp images with slight motion blur and then adjust from there based on the desired effect.
Aperture helps control the amount of light that enters the lens and controls the depth of field, so choose a wider aperture value (like f/2.8 or wider) to blur out the background and make your couple stand out. You can also choose a small aperture with a high f-stop range (f/8-f/16) to let less light into the camera and to keep the whole scene in focus.
ISO determines how sensitive your camera is to light. Keep it low (around 100–400) to avoid digital noise and grain in your images.
Additionally, using a shutter release instead of the shutter button can prevent any camera shake. It’s also good practice to take a test shot to ensure the correct settings and then switch to manual mode. Even in cases of too much light, you can experiment with bulb mode and shoot long exposure photos.
Creating movement while capturing a long exposure photograph will have stunning and dynamic results that are sure to impress your clients. Listed below are different ways to create movement:
Have the couple subtly sway or twirl, or make them walk along a path or staircase for an extended exposure time. The movement can also come from objects in the background, like swaying branches or flowing water. Use techniques like panning and zooming, or experiment with light painting and sparklers to add an extra dynamic to your portraits.
Make your couple walk towards the camera while the shutter remains open, creating a blur effect that adds depth and dimension to the photo. Use tools like flashes, gels, or torches to create dramatic light streaks with the movement.
Move your camera during long exposures; either tilt it slightly up or down or move it in a circle while capturing the photo. This photography technique gives a unique, dreamy effect creating unique light trails that can be especially effective when photographing a couple dancing or walking down the aisle.
From waves to the wind – you can use the above tips and photography techniques to play with different elements around you when creating a long exposure photo of your couple. Use a tripod and choose the right settings in shutter priority mode to create breathtaking shots with star trails or fireworks, and elevate your couple’s wedding photos. And with post-processing, you can bring out the best in your image by adjusting the contrast, saturation, and highlights. Just remember to keep it natural!
At ShootDotEdit, we offer tips to improve your photography skills and assist you by reducing your post-production workload through custom photo editing services. Check our pricing plans to see how we can help your wedding photography business.
Although golden hour photography has been around since the dawn of photography, it has recently become all the rage, all thanks to social media! And it makes complete sense because the vibrant hues and soft light that only occur during golden hour make for some of the most enchanting and romantic wedding photos. While the light itself sets the stage for incredible portraits, capturing it well requires strategic planning. In this blog, we will share 5 golden hour photography tips to help you capture the best golden hour wedding photos. So grab your camera, and prepare to take the most swoon-worthy golden hour photos for your couples!
What Time Is Golden Hour?
Image Courtesy: ShootDotEdit Customer @sarafrance
Also known as ‘magic hour’, golden hour is the hour shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the sun is low on the horizon, producing a beautiful and warm light that illuminates everything with a golden glow. Now, you may wonder, “How long is the golden hour?” Well, as the name suggests, it generally lasts for about an hour, but this timeframe can vary depending on your location and the time of year.
Golden Hour Photography Ideas: Inspiration From ShootDotEdit Customers
If you’re looking for some golden hour wedding photo inspiration, check out some of the most breathtaking golden light photography by ShootDotEdit customers below!
5 Ways To Capture Romantic Golden Hour Wedding Photos
1. Plan Ahead And Scout The Location
To capture stunning golden hour wedding photos, it’s essential to plan ahead and scout the location beforehand. Timing is everything, and it’s important to schedule your shooting time based on the timing of the sunset. Arriving early at the location is crucial so that you can scout the area (if you couldn’t do it before the wedding day), understand the best potential angles and shooting positions, and plan the right timing of the photo shoot accordingly. However, don’t assume that just because a couple plans a beach wedding, you’ll be guaranteed a sunset photo. It’s important to find out exactly where the sun rises and sets and use professional apps like Sun Surveyor to pinpoint the best vantage points for taking photos. Read More: The Importance Of Location Scouting In Wedding Photography
2. Pick A Spot With A Scenic View
When it comes to wedding venues, couples put a great deal of effort into choosing a location that resonates with who they are. So, why not take advantage of the place to capture some magical golden hour wedding photos? The location you choose for couples portraits could really make your wedding pictures pop. A scenic view can really add depth and interest to your photos, making them truly stand out. There are so many different types of scenery that work great during the golden hour time.
A beach wedding can offer stunning photos with warm, glowing light shining on the ocean. On the other hand, a mountainous landscape can create a grand and awe-inspiring setting. Gardens can give off a dreamy and romantic vibe, and cityscapes can be super dynamic and energetic. Choose a location that fits the couple’s unique style and resonates with you as well. With a beautiful spot and that magical golden hour lighting, you’ll have everything you need to capture stunning wedding photographs.
3. Capture Dreamy Photos From Unique Perspectives
Have you ever considered using a drone? Drone shots are all the hype these days! They can help you get an impressive bird’s-eye view of the couple, the wedding venue, and its surroundings. This perspective can add a whole new dimension to your golden hour wedding photos, making them truly unforgettable. Another way to mix things up is by experimenting with different focal lengths. A wide-angle lens can be perfect for capturing the newlyweds from a distance, while a telephoto lens is great for getting up close and personal and creating an intimate look.
To get the most out of this magical hour, you need to dial in the correct golden hour photography settings. Shooting in manual mode allows you to adjust the exposure to take advantage of the backlighting. Setting a low aperture can give you a beautiful, soft focus effect in portraits, while a higher aperture value provides a sharp image throughout the scene.
As for ISO, if the lighting is strong and bright, go for ISO 100 or lower. But as the sun sets, increase the ISO to around 400-800. For shooting couples portraits during golden hour, it’s best to start with an ISO of 100, a wide aperture like f/2, and a shutter speed of 1/250–1/500. As the sun goes down, gradually increase the ISO to maintain the sharpness and exposure of the images. One last tip is to use Aperture Priority Mode while shooting. It gives you the ease of manually adjusting the aperture while the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed and ISO accordingly.
5. Experiment With Different Lighting Techniques
Looking to add some creative flair to your wedding photos? Consider experimenting with different lighting techniques during the golden hour. Silhouettes are a popular choice and offer intense and dramatic results. The lower position of the sun during golden hour makes it perfect for capturing this type of shot. Sun flares are another dreamy and magical addition to your golden hour wedding photos, adding those bright rings of light. Meanwhile, backlighting during the golden hour can make your wedding photos glow, creating a beautiful halo or rim light around your subject and making them stand out.
Capturing the golden hour, either during sunrise or sunset, is an art form. Next time you’re out shooting in the gorgeous golden light, use these tips to get the best shots. Remember, planning ahead is key! Scout the location for scenic views, and keep an eye on where the sun is moving so that you can be prepared for any opportunities it presents. Dial in the right camera settings, and consider experimenting with different lighting techniques. Also, don’t forget to guide your couple and try some posed shots as well as candid ones! The end results will be so worth it!
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you grow as a wedding photographer. However, if you find that endless editing tasks are blocking your way and sapping your energy, let us help! To learn more about how our professional photo editing services could give you your time back, check out our pricing plans.
Every wedding ceremony is unique, and the wedding ceremony photos should also be a reflection of that. Taking on the role of a wedding photographer is an honor but also a huge responsibility! From considering the couple’s desired shots and styles to setting up creative backdrops and poses, there is much to consider when taking on this artistic challenge. Capturing those special moments in a way that will make couples look back on them fondly is no easy task! This comprehensive wedding ceremony photography guide will help you explore what it takes to capture all the must-have shots during the ceremony seamlessly. So, let’s get started!
Here are the different types of wedding ceremonies you may be asked to capture, each with their own unique set of challenges:
Traditional religious ceremony: Longer wedding ceremonies and strict religious customs can make it challenging to get the perfect shot. So, remember to be respectful and discreet while capturing these important moments.
Civil ceremony: This usually takes place in an indoor setting, and creativity is key in making the most of the wedding venue’s limitations.
Modern ceremony: They are a mix of traditional and contemporary elements and often held in a relaxed atmosphere, allowing photographers to be more creative.
Moreover, an important part of learning how to photograph a wedding ceremony is to remember to research and prepare thoroughly for any religious or cultural traditions that need to be considered when photographing a wedding ceremony.
From communicating with your couple to making sure you have all the right equipment, here are some basic tips and tricks to get you started!
Communicate with the couple: Ensure that you and the couple are on the same page about expectations, locations, and any special moments the couple wants captured.
Arrive early: Scout the venue and set up your equipment without distractions. Be there ahead of time to ensure that you have everything prepped and ready.
Check with the officiant: Talk to the officiant before the ceremony starts to understand where you can and cannot take photos.
Take advantage of natural lighting: Look for natural light sources streaming into the venue to capture beautiful shots.
Anticipate the next moment: Pay attention to the sequence of events during the wedding ceremony so that you’re prepared for the perfect shot each time.
Use a long lens: Using a long lens camera can help you capture close-up shots without being too intrusive or distracting.
Backup memory and battery: Never forget to carry backup equipment like a memory card and a battery in case something goes wrong.
Dress appropriately: Remember to dress professionally. Additionally, don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be on your feet throughout the day.
Capture emotions: Always keep an eye on the couple and guests to capture candid moments that will be cherished forever.
Be creative: Make use of different angles to add variety to the photographs. Consider using different lenses to shoot different parts of the ceremony.
Remember to stay calm and organized amid the mayhem of a wedding day. These tips will help you capture heartfelt wedding ceremony photos that your clients will cherish.
As a wedding photographer, it’s crucial to document all the important moments of the big day. So, here’s a wedding ceremony photography checklist to help you remember all the important shots.
Before the ceremony: Take photos of the venue, decorations, and guests arriving. Don’t forget to get some shots of the bride and groom getting ready!
Walking down the aisle: It is one of the most iconic shots of a wedding ceremony. Make sure you capture both sides of the aisle as well as close-ups of the couple walking down the aisle.
Vows: Capture close-up shots of the couple exchanging vows. Candid photos of them giggling, laughing out loud, or getting emotional during the vows are a few must-haves from this moment.
Rings: The ring exchange is a key moment in a wedding ceremony! So, make sure you get plenty of photos when your bride and groom are sliding the rings into each other’s fingers.
First kiss: The first kiss is one of the most memorable and most awaited shots to get during the ceremony! If you’ve a second shooter with you, consider shooting the first kiss from different angles.
Confetti/rice/petals: If confetti or petals are part of the ceremony exit, make sure you get them in the ceremony photos as well!
Post-ceremony photos: Don’t forget to take photos with the couple’s family members and friends before heading off for more formal portraits.
Wedding Ceremony Photography: Challenges To Prepare For
Wedding ceremonies can be unpredictable and often include time constraints. Not only do you have to capture the moment perfectly, but you also need to consider where to stand as a photographer during the ceremony, what kind of lighting to use, and how to take photos before or after the ceremony. You may also face lighting issues, noisy guests, and unexpected delays.
As a wedding photographer, it is essential that you’re completely familiar with your camera and its settings. Before the ceremony starts, be fully prepared to tackle anything that might come up.
One of the biggest challenges photographers face is finding the perfect spot to capture photos during a wedding ceremony. Our suggestion is to find a spot that allows you to document all the action without getting in the way of guests or interrupting the ceremony.
Solution
There’s an easy solution to the “where to stand” dilemma – attend the wedding rehearsal! You will be able to grasp the layout of the venue and locate the perfect spot to capture photos. Don’t forget to relay this information to the couple or the wedding planner ahead of time. In addition, you can consider these 5 spots when taking pictures during the ceremony.
Wedding ceremonies can take place in a variety of different lighting conditions, and photographers must be prepared to adjust their settings and equipment accordingly. This can be particularly challenging when dealing with low wedding ceremony photography lighting conditions, which can make it difficult to capture clear, well-lit photos.
Solution
Be prepared with the right equipment: Always carry a high-quality camera with a fast lens and various types of lighting equipment like diffusers, reflectors, and off-camera flashes.
Scout the venue ahead of time: Consider visiting the ceremony venue ahead of time to see the lighting conditions and decide which equipment to bring to the shoot.
Test your lighting configuration: Take some test shots during the rehearsal to ensure that your settings are optimal when the ceremony takes place.
Work with natural light: Find the best spot in the venue that has ample natural light to capture the perfect shot. It may involve positioning yourself in different areas throughout the venue or using reflectors and other tools to manipulate light sources.
Control the ambient light: To prevent color casts on your subject(s), you may need to control the ambient light in your surroundings. Adding a gel over your light source will aid in balancing the light temperature.
Use reflective surfaces: Reflective surfaces like windows, mirrors, or white walls can help bounce light around the venue, resulting in interesting effects and better lighting overall.
Have an assistant help with lighting: Hiring an assistant will allow you to shoot more freely as they can carry a reflector or off-camera flash, which can help light the shot effectively.
Wedding photographers not only need to determine when and how to capture key moments like the exchange of vows or the first kiss but also need to be aware of the timeline and maintain a smooth flow throughout the ceremony. Another challenge is meeting the expectations and unique preferences of the couple and their families.
Solution
Plan ahead, anticipate key moments, and be prepared to change and adjust settings on the go. Keep the wedding schedule handy to anticipate key moments like exchanging rings or the first kiss, and keep your lens ready for the moment. Consider the timeline of the event and adjust as needed, typically by using additional lighting or changing lenses to get the best results. Further, if the couple has specific preferences, ensure that those are fulfilled. Ultimately, the goal is to capture beautiful memories that will last a lifetime for the couple and their families.
Do you take pictures before or after the ceremony? When it comes to civil ceremony photography, taking photos is generally allowed throughout, sometimes even with the use of flash. If it’s a religious ceremony, you might need to wait until the ceremony is finished due to restrictions inside the church. Checking ahead with your couple or the venue coordinators is a good practice in this case.
As a wedding photographer, you know that the perfect shot comes down to timing, lighting, and, of course, camera settings. Listed below are the recommended camera settings to photograph wedding ceremonies:
Shutter speed: Choose a fast shutter speed to freeze any movement and capture clear images.
Aperture: Select an aperture that gives you enough depth of field so focus is maintained in your entire photo – from the foreground to the background.
ISO: Consider how much light is available and adjust your ISO accordingly. If it’s too low, your photos will appear dark or grainy. If it’s too high, you may face noise problems when you try to enlarge them later.
White balance: Adjust white balance for different lighting conditions; it helps ensure colors appear natural (no more sickly yellow hues).
Bracketing: Shoot multiple pictures with different exposure settings in quick succession. This way, you can create one single image that contains elements of both over- and underexposed shots!
Dos and Don’ts Of Photographing A Wedding Ceremony
Dos
Don’ts
Be discreet Respectfully capture the moments without getting in the way. Try not to block views or disrupt any elements of the ceremony.
Don’t forget important details Capture photos of items like rings, center aisle flowers, and table settings. These are as much part of the story as the couple themselves!
Be preparedWith so little time between different wedding events, double-check your equipment ahead of time and pre-set appropriate camera settings.
Don’t overexpose people’s faces When shooting in bright sunshine, try balancing out harsh shadows by getting closer to your subjects and using reflectors if needed.
Think on your feet You never know when a special or funny moment might occur. So, think on your feet and be ready to capture photos that might not be featured on the shot list!
Don’t ignore rules Respecting the wishes of the couple or the restrictions imposed by the venue or location should always take precedence over capturing a shot.
Get creative Experiment with different poses, props, and backdrops. You never know what unique shots you can create when you think outside the box!
Don’t underestimate the background Pay attention to your backdrops and avoid distractions like signs and bins, as they can easily ruin a good shot!
Wedding ceremony photography can be a daunting yet rewarding experience for photographers.
With thoughtful preparation, attention to detail, and the ability to think on your feet, you can bring out the best in each moment of a ceremony. Whether it’s understanding the couple’s desired aesthetic or utilizing creative backdrops and camera angles, there is a lot that goes into capturing all the magical details that create timeless memories. Remember that wedding photography is an art form that demands both careful planning and artistic flair. So, let your inspiration guide you, and you may just end up with timeless photos that capture all the joy and love shared on that unique day!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your post-production workload? Let ShootDotEdit lighten the load with professional photo editing services that will help you reach your wedding photography goals. Discover how we can accelerate the growth of your business with our pricing plans!
As you and your couple spend hours discussing important wedding day details, one thing remains entirely beyond your control – the weather. Mother Nature is unpredictable, and rain on wedding days can be a total buzzkill. But don’t let it dampen your spirits or your client’s wedding photography experience! In fact, it can sometimes be a blessing in disguise for photographers to capture incredible wedding photos in the rain. So stop cursing at the weather and get ready to create some magic with your camera. Read on to know how!
Wedding Photos In The Rain: Inspiration From ShootDotEdit Customers
5 Ideas To Capture Stunning Wedding Photos In The Rain
1. Embrace The Rain & Have Fun
Why fight the rain when you can embrace it as a creative opportunity? Ask your couple if they are comfortable taking wedding photos in the rain. If they are game, organize a fun rain photo shoot featuring the couple and the wedding party wearing funky rain boots or holding colorful umbrellas. For iconic wedding photos in the rain ideas, you could encourage the couple and their entourage to dance, run, or splash around in puddles, highlighting their playful personalities and bringing out some truly fun wedding photos.
With a spin of creativity and an eye for detail, wedding photography ideas in the rain can be endless! Moreover, you can also take some incredibly romantic couples portraits of the bride and groom kissing or dancing in the rain!
2. Look For Cover
To ensure your couple is warm and dry (and clean) while still capturing wedding photos in the rain, it’s wise to scout the wedding venue beforehand and search for areas such as porches, covered patios, gazebos, or tents that make for good covers from the rain as well as backdrops for the photos. Additionally, it’s always good to touch base with the venue coordinator to know potential rainy-day photography spots on the property.
A major concern when taking photos in the rain is low-light conditions. Since rainy days are often overcast, an off-camera flash can work wonders to compensate for it by adding a dramatic effect. As far as rainy day photography ideas go, backlighting your couple is one of the most impactful ways to do it. For amazing rainy wedding photos, place the off-camera flash behind the couple and illuminate the rain or droplets. For a classic and timeless shot, consider capturing the couple sharing a kiss under an umbrella.
4. Use An Umbrella
Looking for a straightforward solution on how to photograph photos in the rain? Use an umbrella! Including umbrella wedding photos in your rainy day shot list can add variety to your couple’s wedding album. Not only will it protect the couple from the rain, but it can also make the photos more aesthetically pleasing. Make the most out of the umbrella as a prop to inject some vivid colors against gloomy skies, or simply have your clients hold them to keep them from feeling awkward about where to place their hands.
Reflection photos can add a unique touch to your rainy day wedding photography. Look for puddles or wet surfaces that offer reflective opportunities and experiment with different angles and perspectives to churn out something truly unique. Consider taking some night wedding photos to add an extra layer of drama and magic to the image. There are countless night wedding photography ideas, such as using LED umbrellas, playing with ambient light sources to create silhouettes, or posing couples under fairy lights to capture a romantic evening in the rain.
Bonus Idea: Make The Most Of Indoor Spaces
Should the rain get excessively heavy and persistent, it’s always best to have a plan B ready. If you find yourself taking photos indoors, don’t worry, you can still include some rainy day wedding photos in your couple’s album. If you want to incorporate the rain in indoor wedding photos, you could consider posing your couple by large windows. Not only does this allow you to capture the rain outside, but it’s a great way to use whatever natural lighting you can get.
You could also look for interesting spots indoors, such as the reception hall, lobby, bar area, or tea room. These will help you incorporate the venue’s architectural elements in the wedding photos. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can take some truly inspirational wedding photos even when it is raining cats and dogs. However, when shooting weddings indoors, just be sure to adjust the camera’s color temperature to match the lighting of your surroundings for the best results.
Come stormy skies or rain – the essence of weddings remains the celebration of true love! Although it’s beyond your control, rainfall on your couple’s wedding day shouldn’t cast a pall over their wedding photos. With the right preparation and strategy, taking wedding photos in the rain can be a memorable experience for your couple and their guests alike. Just try to make sure that if you’re going outside in the rain, you’re directing them in a way that also infuses a lot of fun! And with these ideas in mind, you’ll be prepared for anything the weather gods have in store (even if you decide to stay indoors!).
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you grow your wedding photography business. A part of how we do that is by lessening your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
Society loves labeling women right from the moment they are born. Be it cute, pretty, bossy, complicated, emotional, sensitive… the list goes on! But despite being reduced to these labels and facing countless stereotypes and hurdles in their personal and professional lives, many women continue to break through the barriers and own their narratives. Let’s not forget some of the greatest photographers of all time are women. Annie Leibovitz, Berenice Abbott, Ellen von Unwerth, Julia Margaret Cameron – these are just some of the visionaries, artists, and storytellers who explored the canvas of photography and made it their own. And among them are a special group of modern female wedding photographers who have mastered the art of finding and capturing love in all kinds of places. These superwomen wear different hats – from planners and guides to storytellers and friends. They capture the essence of love in a way that only they can. And we intend to be their cheerleaders – not just for Women’s History Month or International Women’s Day, but every single day! So join us as we celebrate these women who have told and continue to tell incredible stories through their art.
Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories: Featuring ShootDotEdit Customers
Meet Brandi Salerno – a Texas wedding photographer, business owner, and supermom of two. This girl doesn’t shy away from dancing at wedding receptions or experimenting to get that perfect shot. With over 75+ weddings under her belt as a second shooter, followed by eight years of experience treading the solo route, Brandi is hands down one of the best wedding photographers out there.
But wait, there’s more! Apart from being an accomplished female photographer, she is also a mentor who shares her vast knowledge of the wedding business and photography through her course. And how can we forget her social media – seriously, she’s killing it! Brandi is definitely someone who does it all and does it all flawlessly!
It’s not just her clients who are raving all praises; she has also been featured in Junebug Weddings, Wedding Chicks, The Knot, and Wandering Weddings, earning her well-deserved recognition. And it goes without saying, we’re BIG fans too!
“A true crime junkie who’s surviving on coffee.” That’s just a glimpse into Breonna’s world. But to truly justify her personality, we’ll say she wears many hats, from a military wife and a mom to an aspiring farmer. But at the heart of it all, she is a talented lifestyle wedding and portrait photographer and the powerhouse behind Breonna Wells Photography.
Based in New Hampshire, Breonna travels far and wide to capture beautiful and timeless memories. Having been in the business for over five years, she has shot weddings of all sizes and settings, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. And she doesn’t stop there! Breonna also specializes in maternity, and newborn photo shoots as well!
Being naturally good at organizing, Breonna doesn’t just photograph but also helps her clients actually follow the timeline they planned. Her ultimate goal is to own a wedding venue – a dream she’s determined to achieve!
Breonna’s passion for love is evident in her work, and her IG bio says it all – she is the photographer “for the wildly in love”.
Meet Diane, the go-getter and business owner of Diane Nicole Photography, based in the charming northern California town of Chico. Proudly hailing from the same town as Sierra Nevada Beer, Diane is a wanderer at heart. She lived in Florida for a while, learned to surf, and discovered her love for photography along the way.
Every time Diane captures a wedding, elopement, or engagement, she does it with her unique approach. She has a gift for spotting those in-between moments that tell a deeper tale. It’s those intimate stories, tender connections, loving gazes that Diane shines at documenting. Diane has been part of the wedding industry for over a decade – first as a caterer and now as a female photographer. She founded her business in 2010 and has followed her passion ever since.
Diane doesn’t see photography as a job. It’s a way of life for her. She’s always eager to capture those fragments that make life so special.
Erin Morrison, a Knoxville-based wedding and family photographer, is known for her energetic and passionate personality. She describes herself as “a walking contradiction, an introverted extrovert, and a Type A personality with a photographic creative streak”.
Originally from Illinois, Erin fell in love with photography after she was blown away by her own wedding photographers. With more than ten years of experience, she has photographed over 300 weddings and consumed over 1700 chai teas – a feat she’s proud of.
Rather than highly stylized and posed images, Erin, who specializes in natural light and documentary photography, enjoys capturing the raw emotions and rush of excitement during life’s significant milestones.
Erin is also a strong supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and has photographed numerous weddings within the community. Her clients rave about her adaptability, knowledge, and flexibility in any shooting condition. Moreover, she is one of the few photographers authorized to shoot in The Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
Erin has been voted one of Knoxville’s best female wedding photographers. Her philosophy is centered
on capturing her clients’ personalities, even if that means embracing their goofy or silly side.
Kelly Wilde is a Portland-based photographer who loves capturing authentic moments! With 20 years of experience, including 13 years of shooting weddings, Kelly is truly a seasoned pro. Whether it’s managing a ‘momzilla’, adjusting timelines, or making the most of unexpected weather – she’s got it covered.
Kelly’s approach to photography is honest and raw, focusing on humor, emotion, and the in-between moments that are often overlooked. She blends documentary and fine art photography to create images that tell a compelling story. And she’s also trained herself to be awesome at in-person sales.
From weddings to boudoirs, Kelly loves a good variety! And she’s always game to travel anywhere for that perfect shot. In whatever she does – her love candids shine through. Her work has been featured in numerous publications, including Green Wedding Shoes, Style Me Pretty, Ruffled, Off-Beat Bride, etc.
Beyond photography, Kelly loves all things paranormal, old-school indie rock, donuts, Arf and Barkley (her two dogs), her family, plastic cameras, cabins in the woods, collecting rocks – the list goes on.
Melissa Fe Chapman is a SoCal and destination wedding photographer who loves going places and documenting priceless moments. She has been capturing love stories and creating magic with her camera since 2013. What’s more interesting is that she was always the one taking pictures of their friends and family – even though the dream of being a photographer was still a blur.
It all started in 2013 when she took maternity photos for her best friend. The experience ignited her passion for photography, and since then, she has built a successful business that captures the true meaning of love, life, family, and beauty through images.
Melissa takes pride in photographing the aspects of people’s lives that make them genuinely happy. Moreover, she celebrates love in all forms – making her photography brand all-inclusive.
In her two-decade-long stint as a photographer, Sara France of Sara France Photography has achieved so much. She’s an award-winning photographer and a Sony Alpha Female, who successfully runs three distinct photography brands, and her empire is still growing!
Sara has a long list of accomplishments to her name as one of the top female wedding photographers in the industry. One of her greatest honors is being named one of only five wedding photographers worldwide to be a Sony Artisan of Imagery. She is currently a mentor in Sony’s Alpha Female program, which supports women in the photography and videography fields.
Apple has also recognized Sara’s work as a wedding photographer, displaying several of her weddings in their stores and online. Despite all these accolades, Sara feels her greatest accomplishments are the thank-you letters and hugs from happy couples. For Sara, connecting with her clients is the most fulfilling part of her job.
Her passion for photography shines through her stunning work. Beyond photography, she’s a big-time gadget and technology enthusiast, so if you’re into gear talk, she’s all ears!
Whitney Olson is a talented wedding and elopement photographer who resides in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina. With a free-spirited nature, Whitney finds joy in capturing epic love stories against the breathtaking mountain backdrop.
When not running around with couples around fields and mountains, Whitney is a devoted mom of three boys and happily married to her soulmate. Her faith is integral to her life, and she embraces her imperfections, including her penchant for “swearing like a sailor”.
Whitney enjoys spending time with her family, sipping coffee, and binge-watching true crime shows while snacking on tacos smothered in hot sauce. While the Blue Ridge Mountains hold a special place in her heart, Whitney loves to explore and has traveled to six different countries.
Whitney’s life is wild and untamed, and she loves capturing the same kind of energy in the love stories she tells through her photography. She is the perfect third wheel to capture the crazy and beautiful in every love story.
Stephanie is an Arizona-based female wedding photographer passionate about capturing authentic emotions. Her motto is all about finding the perfect light to highlight the joy in life’s simplest moments.
She fell in love with photography at an early age when her father introduced her to his Canon 35mm film camera. Since then, Stephanie has dedicated countless hours to mastering her craft in film and digital realms. A lot of those hours have also gone into Stephanie offering incomparable customer service to her couples.
Fueled by equal parts coffee and creativity, Stephanie spends her days taking care of her team and nights in front of the computer. For her, photography is not just a job but a passion that allows her to freeze life’s cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Once a geriatric nurse, Kristen Lenox is now a master of all things light and airy! A lover of bright wedding photos, she is one of the female wedding photographers who has nailed timeless candids and authentic portraits. But Kristen is way more than just a skilled photographer. She values being an attentive, quick-to-respond, and well-organized photographer. Kristen and her team value authenticity and love getting to know couples, embracing all the little quirks that make them unique. And she’s one of the few wedding photographers who run away from perfectionism.
We don’t just love her for her art, we also love her for the kind of human being she is. In a competitive industry, Kristen is one of those professionals who looks out for her peers too. Moreover, she’s funny, she’s humble, she knows exactly what she wants, and she’s always chasing after the real moments, even if that means capturing ‘imperfections’.
Laura Brown is a midwest girl who now calls the Dallas suburbs home. She loves her bourbon and anything spicy. But when she’s not in Texas, she can be found in the mountains, where she’s most at peace.
Laura and her husband got married in Asheville, NC; her photographer was her fairy godmother who made all her wedding dreams come true. This is where she had her first real-life interaction with wedding photography. She bought her first camera and started capturing nature’s beauty while traveling. Laura finally decided to pursue wedding photography as a career and create meaningful magic for other couples.
Today, Laura is living her dream, capturing gorgeous wedding photos with a timeless feel.
Photography is an art form that allows us to freeze precious moments in time. As we recognize and honor women who tell our stories, it is essential to acknowledge the immense contributions of female photographers in shaping the field of wedding photography.
We applaud their remarkable achievements and pledge to support and encourage them in their endeavors. Let us create a more inclusive and diverse space where every talented photographer, regardless of gender, can thrive and succeed. So here’s to the women who capture our memories and tell our stories through their lenses – we salute you, thank you, and celebrate you. And, we are SO grateful to be connected to you. May you continue to inspire and empower!
Celebrating Women’s History Month!
At ShootDotEdit, we share stories highlighting dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. And the stories of these remarkable female wedding photographers perfectly embody those values. In addition to sharing stories, we aim to help the photography community by offering photo editing services designed to take the hassle out of post-production. If you want to learn more about our pricing plans, check them out now.
From capturing classic poses and wedding day moments to exquisite details, traditional wedding photography methods have stood the test of time. And we don’t see them ever going out of style. While some couples like to hop on the ‘trends train’ when it comes to wedding photography styles, others still prefer traditional wedding photographs, as they make for timeless wedding photos. In this blog we explore this photography style and share some tips and inspiration that could help you create beautiful traditional wedding photos for your couples.
Traditional photography involves taking posed or staged photos of the couple, their family, friends, and other essential guests. Typically, such wedding photos have everyone looking directly into the camera lens and posing in a certain way. Traditional wedding photographers usually guide their subjects to sit or stand in a specific location or against a specific backdrop during solo and group pictures.
A proven trick to take traditional wedding photography shots is to keep things simple and document important events during a wedding, such as a ring exchange, kiss at the altar, cake cutting, first dance, group pictures, couples portraits, and other classic wedding day moments.
Traditional Wedding Photography Ideas & Tips
If your clients desire simple wedding photographs that capture all the significant moments, then traditional wedding photography might be what they’re looking for. And while this style may be classic, it doesn’t have to be boring. These tips could help you deliver exactly what they want.
1. Plan And Prepare
Effective communication is essential to make wedding photography a success, both for you as a photographer and your couple. Explain to your clients what traditional photography means and the type of photos you will be taking. It’s best to discuss with the couple and then decide which types of traditional wedding pictures they would like. It could be anything ranging from couples portraits, fine detail shots, group photos, etc. You can also ask the couple to suggest any special moments that they want documented during the wedding.
Weddings are a rollercoaster of events, so ensure you capture every moment without impacting the schedule. Creating a wedding photography timeline with a must-have wedding photos list could help with that. Weddings take place at different times and places, with various people, moods, etc. So, it is important to understand why, where, and when you need to be present.
Work with your couple and curate a photography timeline for their wedding day. Also, remind them to make their VIPs aware of this schedule and know where they have to be and at what time. Here is a traditional wedding photos list that you can use or tweak according to your/your couple’s preference:
Couples portraits outside the church/after the ceremony
Traditional wedding photography involves capturing all the important wedding moments as they happen, so you can design a wedding photo album chronologically. From the couple getting ready to the ceremony and reception – keep an eye out for special moments that your couple may want to frame after receiving their wedding photos and prints.
4. Give Some Direction
It is common for couples to feel self-conscious in front of the camera. But as the wedding photographer, you could help them get comfortable and confident with just some directions. Guide them through poses, such as standing close together, hands on the hips, or a classic dip kiss pose. By capturing a combination of traditional wedding photography poses fused with your own creative posing ideas, you can deliver photographs that are both timeless and unique.
Also, if you’re shooting with a large group, it’s good to crack jokes to lighten the mood and get people in the frame laughing and smiling. It helps the couple relax, and yields perfectly posed wedding photos with natural emotions.
It’s important to be patient with your clients and strictly stick to traditional wedding photo poses if they’ve requested a traditional wedding photography approach. Instead of asking your couple and their guests to pose in a certain way, you could simply ask them to give their best smile while looking into the camera (P.S – don’t forget to cue the famous “say cheese!” phrase. It’s a classic way to get those 1000-volt smiles).
If you think something is missing in the photograph, do not hesitate to ask the group or couple to pose for another shot. Also, ensure that everyone is looking into the camera and capture as many traditional wedding moments as possible.
Traditional wedding photography is a great choice for capturing the essence of a couple’s wedding day. This photography style still creates some of the most classic and timeless wedding photographs despite today’s more modern and trendy photography styles. Through communication with your couple, curating a wedding timeline, taking photos in sequence, and giving some simple posing directions, you can achieve stunning results that will provide a lifetime of treasured memories for your couple.
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you grow your wedding photography business. A part of how we do that is by lessening your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
Getting on a wedding vendors list or preferred vendor list can turn out to be incredibly beneficial for your wedding photography business. It is essentially the holy grail of client inquiries for wedding professionals. A wedding day today is like a production that includes numerous people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to successfully pull off a couple’s big day. And as a wedding photographer, you’re one of them! This list of wedding vendors is created by a wedding venue or wedding planner, or any other wedding vendor and includes all their favorite wedding services providers. This wedding vendor directory is handed to potential clients during meetings and is an effective way to raise awareness about your brand and book more clients! In this blog, we share tips on how you could get on these lists and why you should consider doing it in the first place.
Tips For Getting On The Wedding Vendors List
1. Schedule A Meeting
If you’re aiming to get on a venue’s preferred wedding vendors list, one of the easiest ways to do that is by scheduling a site tour at the wedding venue. During this tour, you can meet with the manager and events team and ask them questions about their wedding vendors checklist and how they decide who makes it onto the list. This way, you can strategize how to get on their wedding vendor listings and also offer professional advice to your clients about whether the venue is the ideal wedding location for their wedding photos. Whether it’s a venue or a planner, or a wedding decorator, one of the best ways to learn how to get in their “good books” is to directly reach out to them and ask them about it.
2. Make Genuine Connections
It’s important to make connections with other wedding professionals in the industry, as you never know where that next referral might come from. And the key to benefitting from these connections is to make sure they are organic and genuine. When you attend events or workshops, there are high chances of running into other wedding vendors, such as wedding planners, wedding cake designers, florists, etc. As the first step to establishing an authentic relationship with them, you could start with introducing yourself. Instead of just talking business, we’d recommend that you focus on having a real conversation that helps you get to know them better.
Another great way to get your name out there is by joining wedding vendor websites like The Knot or Brides. These wedding vendor websites have free wedding vendor listings where they publish blog posts about all things weddings, including wedding photography, wedding venues, and planners. This allows wedding professionals to market their business directly to potential clients. Plus, these websites have different wedding vendor categories where they shine the spotlight on some of their favorite vendors as well.
4. Distribute Business Cards/Brochures
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, we can’t emphasize enough the importance of carrying your business card or brochure to any professional event or workshop. You never know when you might strike a connection (or even make a deal!). So, the next time you plan to head out to an event, remember to carry your business card or brochure with all your contact information, making it easy for interested folks to add you to their wedding vendors list.
When you post wedding photos on your blog or social media pages, you could consider tagging the other vendors who worked alongside you in the making of the ultimate wedding day! This can help them gain exposure, which they might just appreciate you for by returning the favor. By simply showing your gratitude, these wedding vendors will be more likely to recommend your services to their clients and add you to their free wedding vendor listing when the time comes.
Benefits Of Being On A Wedding Vendor Contact List
1. Create Brand Awareness
Being on a wedding vendors list is a great way to raise awareness about your wedding photography brand. For example, if you shoot destination weddings, potential clients who are looking for destination wedding photographers could find you easily through the information shared in a wedding vendor list. This makes it easier for them to contact you and learn more about your business.
One of the greatest perks of being on a wedding vendors list is the increased referrals. Plus, when a couple’s trusted wedding vendor recommends your wedding photography business to them, they are more likely to trust and hire you. So not only does being on preferred vendors lists help you make more friends in the industry, but it could also be a potential way to get a more continuous flow of leads.
3. Gain Credibility
Another benefit of being on vendor lists is that it establishes your credibility, as it shows that other professionals are recommending you and vouching for the quality of your work. This creates trust in potential customers who are in the wedding planning process of looking for experienced photographers to capture their special day.
Having your name on the wedding vendors list means more bookings and, ultimately, an increase in cash flow. Being seen as the preferred wedding photographer by other vendors can also lead to higher quality customers and bigger wedding budgets from clients who are looking for professional photographers.
5. Working With Ideal Clients
Not all couples getting married are going to be your ideal customers. You might be someone who exclusively documents luxury weddings, or you might only want to photograph elopements, making your client base very specific. However, if you’re part of a luxury wedding venue’s preferred vendors list or feature on a list of a boutique that only works with elopement brides, you automatically have a higher chance of being recommended to your ideal client.
Whether you’re new in the industry or a seasoned pro, booking new clients is always a high priority on the TDL. While marketing strategies could help with that, having your name on wedding vendors lists could play a significant part in skyrocketing those wedding bookings. From networking with vendors you love to showing appreciation for your vendor partners through social media – you can do multiple things to make a real connection, get on those preferred vendor lists, and establish a mutually beneficial partnership with wedding vendors.
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you grow your wedding photography business. A part of how we do that is by lessening your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
Wedding photos with pets: We’ve taken them, we’ve seen them, we can’t get enough of them, and we’ve saved ALL of them on our IG. As a wedding photographer, you might have already honed your people skills, but if your couple’s pet or pets are a part of the guest list, you might want to think about leveling up your communication and wedding photography techniques as well. It’s highly likely that if your couple plans on including pets in wedding, they won’t spring that surprise on you on the wedding day, which means you’ll have enough time to prepare a photo checklist for wedding that features super cute photos of their fur babies. But if you do get stuck somewhere, these 5 wedding photo ideas on how to photograph pets at weddings could help you get exactly what you need to get those super cute family photos with pets.
How To Take Adorable Wedding Photos With Pets
1. Get Pet-Approved
Image Credit: ShootDotEdit Customer @apollofields
Your couple has approved you as their wedding photographer, but in case their wedding photography plan also involves wedding photos with pets, we’d recommend getting to know their pets too. Usually, you’ll have plenty of time in-between the contract signing and the wedding day, so if you can, try to get acquainted with their pets before you photograph them. This way, you can create a game plan of how you’re going to get their fur babies to pose for you on the wedding day. Plus, this will also give the pets a chance to get to know you. You never know how a pet can react to a new person, so it’s important that both parties get to know each other for a seamless working relationship.
If meeting the pets in-person is not an option, you could simply reach out to your couple and ask them questions about their pets. This could give you an idea about their personalities and help you prepare for any challenges that you might encounter on the wedding day. Also, a great way to get the pets to cooperate on the wedding day would be to keep their favorite treats handy. This way, it’s a win-win! Additionally, if your couple really wants to have their dog in the wedding photos but is completely clueless about how to go about it, you could go the extra mile for them and guide them to articles that talk about ‘how to include your dog in your wedding photos’.
Couples often include their pets in wedding photos as a sign of love and connection to an animal that has been with them through thick and thin. And as a wedding photographer, your job is to capture those heart-warming moments between the couple and their beloved pets. For example, you could take pictures of the couple giving kisses to their pets or even photograph their furry companions giving them slobbery kisses! For some candid wedding photos with pets – if your wedding day timeline allows – just ask your couple to play around with their pets. This is the best way to get some picture-perfect family portraits that reflect their sweet bond.
Our tip: Try not to confine pets indoors. One of the best places to take wedding photos with pets is outdoors in big, open fields. So if your couple’s pet-friendly venue also offers space for pets to run and play around, then take that opportunity to let pets be pets, and photograph them in their element.
3. Solo Portraits
Image Credit: ShootDotEdit Customer @apollofields
Is there really anything more adorable than solo pet portraits on the wedding day? Okay, there could be, but your couple will 100% go “awwww” when they see their puppy’s/cat’s/*enter pet* solo portrait. If your couple’s pets are part of the wedding, there are chances that they will be wearing some kind of wedding attire or accessory. Bowties, tuxedos, dresses, floral collars and crowns, custom bandanas – if your couple’s pets are wearing anything close to a wedding attire, then your job is to ensure that you do a solo portrait session with them. For wedding photos with dogs, consider photographing them on a couch, on the bed, by a window, running around, or even taking a quick little nap before they have to report to duty as the ring bearer or flower girl or just to stand next to the couple as they say their wedding vows. Including a cat in your wedding photography might not be something you do everyday, but if your couple does ask for it, do your research on how to get the best photo possible.
Holding multiple cameras and lenses, giving posing cues, taking photos, and handling pets at the same time could be a little too much for any wedding photographer. For picture-perfect wedding photos with pets, you might want to consider using a helping hand. This could be your second shooter, an assistant, or one of the guests who is familiar with your couple’s pets. This way, you can focus on taking the best wedding photos with pets. If there’s a dog in the wedding, they might often get distracted and want to run around the place, so when you have a helper with you, they can keep the dog engaged even when they’re in front of the camera.
When it comes to pets, you have to be prepared for sudden mood shifts. Even if you have created a whole checklist of wedding photos with pets, don’t be disappointed if your couple’s pet decides to take a nap or socialize with guests instead. Forcing the pet to pose for the camera is certainly not the best way to go about it. You have to be willing to take a break, let the pets do their thing, and then start over. If a pet gets uncooperative or agitated, we’d highly recommend pausing and giving them some TLC (or treats) to get them in a good mood again. Plus, your couple will really appreciate you for showing kindness and being patient with their pets. They are just like another family member to them, so it’s important to remember that their well-being matters to the couple.
Including pets in a wedding is an increasingly growing trend, and it’s such a heart-warming way for couples to honor their furry family members. Wedding photos with pets can be incredibly cute, and not to mention super super precious to your clients. So if you want to keep up with the trend, you might want to brush up on your pet photography skills, learn how to understand pets, and get them to do what you want without having to force them. If it’s possible, meet the pet before you photograph them or get to know them through your couple. On the day of the wedding, go outside and try not to just chase them for photos. And most importantly, remember the treats and stay patient no matter what. Respect the pet, and you shall get respect in return – from the pet and your clients too.
PS: To perfect your pet photography technique, you could try practicing with your pet if you have one!
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you grow your wedding photography business. A part of how we do that is by lessening your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
From pre-ceremony shots to the final exit, all the wedding photographs collectively build the narrative of your client’s big day and are essential for their memory book, be it in photo albums or prints. And some of the photos they will cherish the most are the wedding party pictures. Plus, when it comes to wedding party poses, there’s so much you can do! You can go classic or fun or creative or aim for unique wedding party photos or try out all of them (depending on how much time you’ve got). Since these photos are a must-have on the shot list, this blog offers not only photo ideas that you could try with the wedding party but also some tips to make group photos simple and easy.
Wedding party photography is nothing but the time you take out to take pictures of the couple with their wedding party or just photos of the bridesmaids and groomsmen on their own. These people are, without a doubt, some of the VIPs of the wedding day, making wedding party pictures a crucial element on your wedding day TDL.
The best part is that whether it’s a small or a large crew, there are wedding party picture ideas you can use for both. From wedding party pictures with flower girl, super glamorous bridal party photos, or perfectly-posed wedding party pictures with parents – wedding party photography truly encapsulates some of the most treasured memories of a wedding day.
Wedding Party Photo Ideas: Inspiration From ShootDotEdit Customers
From gorgeous bridal party photo ideas to creative groomsmen photos, use these stunning shots from ShootDotEdit customers to get inspired for your next wedding photography gig.
Besides stunning photos, wedding party photography is also about showcasing the relationship your couple shares with the wedding party. To get the best shots, try to capture the natural interaction between your couple and their wedding party. Of course, you can always go for heavily and creatively-posed photos, but it’s shooting those candid photos that could give way to photos that showcase their authentic relationship. Plus, you can do this at any time during the wedding timeline. Whether it’s the exciting and emotional getting ready moments or when the entire wedding party is partying it up on the dance floor – try to photograph moments as they unfold to truly document the bond your clients share with their closest people. Focus on the tight hugs, knowing glances, and joyful laughs shared between them.
One of the main wedding photography tips for any wedding is to follow a shot list that gets you both posed and candid photos. The same rule applies to pictures of the wedding party. Since wedding group poses are not the easiest part of wedding photography, we’d recommend keeping a list of poses, so you don’t have to scramble for ideas as you’re shooting. Wedding party photos can be fun and creative as well. Think of wedding party photo ideas that include pets, blowing bubbles, ribbon wands, champagne showers, etc.
You could also try including wedding celebration vibes in your wedding party pictures, and to get the most authentic version of that, we’d highly suggest shooting candids. These could be during the wedding, the wedding reception party, or even the laughter that erupts when things are all over the place when trying to pose a large wedding party (you don’t even need to say “say cheese” when this happens!). Another thing you could try is giving action cues like asking the entire wedding party to run towards you! That’s not just candid, it’s also going to be a really fun photo and memory.
To execute different wedding party photography ideas, start with getting creative with angles, explore stunning landscapes and find unique backgrounds for the perfect shot.
Choosing a great location can also add creativity to your photography. Whether you’re shooting on top of a hill or taking pictures on the beach with a bright blue sky as your backdrop, try using different photography angles and techniques that incorporate the landscape and get you 10/10 wedding party pictures.
Lighting and composition can make or break your wedding photos. The same applies to photos of the wedding party. Whether you are indoors or outdoors, try to make sure you’re using the right lighting for the types of shots you need.
Don’t just stay at eye level; you can use aerial shots or even shoot from below for more dramatic wedding party pictures.
You can also utilize props such as balloons, streamers, and umbrellas for additional playful and fun wedding party photo ideas.
Photographing special moments between the wedding party and the couple helps to strengthen your wedding day story. When doing so, ensure to capture love, laughter, bear hugs, and maybe even some happy tears. From fun wedding party photos to group hugs during wedding dance photos – try to include beautifully framed shots of each moment of celebration in your wedding shot list. To avoid wasting any time, we’d recommend planning out all the wedding party pictures in advance. But like we said before, don’t be afraid to go beyond the shot list. You never know what candid moments make it to the wedding album.
At ShootDotEdit, we strive to help wedding photographers reach their true potential as creative professionals and business owners. Part of how we do that is by taking photo editing off your plate with our professional editing services. To learn more about how we can help, take a look at our pricing plans.
